Cam Smith finishes second at the Crown Australian Open after a final-hole bogey, missing a playoff by one stroke.
Just a week ago, Cam Smith was under fire after missing his seventh consecutive cut. But at the Crown Australian Open at Royal Melbourne, the 2022 Champion Golfer of the Year silenced critics with a runner-up finish. The 32-year-old LIV golfer showed he still has what it takes. Had it not been for a costly bogey on the par-4 18th, Smith might have forced a playoff with Rasmus Neergaard-Petersen. Instead, he missed a 1.5-meter par putt, marking his second closing-hole bogey in a row, and fell one shot short of a title he’s long coveted.
Understandably, the local hero wasn’t in the mood to celebrate, despite his strong showing. Neergaard-Petersen, however, praised Smith: ‘He’s a great guy, and it was awesome to be out there with him today.’
McIlroy Mania at Royal Melbourne
Rory McIlroy ended his first trip to Australia in 11 years on a high note. With birdies on the final two holes, he carded a 69 to finish T14. The Northern Irishman, who was treated like a rockstar by over 100,000 fans, had only praise for the event: ‘It’s been a great week. Melbourne is a fantastic sports city. What happened here and what was shown on TV will have made a big impression in Europe and the US. This tournament has huge potential and is regaining the significance it deserves.’
McIlroy now looks forward to some rest: ‘I’m excited to put my feet up, enjoy a few glasses of wine over Christmas, and reflect on an incredible 2025.’ He’s also nominated for BBC Sports Personality of the Year and could be in line for a knighthood from King Charles III on December 31.
PGA Tour 2027: Rolapp and Woods outline changes
On the Bahamas, PGA Tour CEO Brian Rolapp and board member Tiger Woods met with players at the Hero World Challenge to discuss potential structural changes starting in 2027. Woods, who chairs the Future Competitions Committee, emphasized the need for a more fan-friendly and recognizable product. Options include a full overhaul or gradual adjustments. A reduced calendar with 20–22 Signature Events post-Super Bowl is on the table. While not everyone agrees with the direction, top players would likely benefit financially.
Scottie Scheffler debuts blue Qi4D driver
Scottie Scheffler debuted TaylorMade’s new Qi4D driver at the Hero World Challenge. Unlike Rory McIlroy and Tommy Fleetwood, who use grey-faced versions, Scheffler opted for a blue-faced model with 8° loft. The results were impressive: he averaged 293 meters off the tee and hit 84% of fairways.